Tournai

The best season for a holiday is May-September. At this time of year the weather is the most comfortable: minimal chance of rain, moderate humidity and optimal air temperature. This is also when the tourist infrastructure runs at full capacity — all hotels, restaurants and entertainment are open. If you want to save money, consider the period right after the high season ends: accommodation prices are lower, and the weather is still pleasant. You can check the temperature by month in the match-by-month tool.

In summer, the air warms up to an average of +30.0°C, during the day — up to +22.5°C. This is a great time for beach holidays and long walks. Sunscreen is recommended during the peak hours from 11:00 to 16:00.

In winter, the air temperature stays around +-3.0°C, during the day — up to +6.0°C. For the winter period these are very comfortable figures that allow swimming and sunbathing. Evenings can be cooler, so a light jacket will not go amiss.

The rainy season falls on January. During this period rainfall is more frequent, but usually short — the rain lasts 1-2 hours, after which the sun comes out again. Humidity is higher, so being outside may be less comfortable. At the same time, accommodation and flight prices during the rainy season are significantly lower — an excellent option for a budget holiday.

A holiday for one person will cost around $133.00 (≈ 11 161 ₽ · ≈ 119 EUR) per day. The daily budget includes: a 3-star hotel, lunch at a cafe, dinner at a restaurant, drinking water, two public transport trips. Flights are not included in the calculation. You can calculate the cost of your holiday in more detail in the trip planning calculator across all 70 parameters.

Accommodation is available for every budget: a hostel dorm bed — $38.00 per night, a 3-star hotel room — $66.00 per night, a 4-star hotel — $100.00 per night, a five-star hotel — $160.00 per night, an apartment — $70.00 per night, a villa — $130.00 per night. In high season prices can be 20-30% higher, and in low season — lower.

Food is one of the main expense items: lunch at an affordable cafe — $15.00, dinner at a restaurant — $45.00, a cup of cappuccino — $3.00, a 0.5L beer — $5.00, a 1.5L bottle of water — $2.00. You can eat significantly cheaper at markets and street cafes.

a taxi from the airport — $150.00, a single public transport ticket — $2.50, a short taxi ride — $12.00, car rental — $50.00 per day. Public transport is the most budget-friendly way to get around.

Among the main attractions are: Notre-Dame Cathedral — Magnificent cathedral in Romanesque-Gothic style, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Construction began in the 12th century, and the cathedral impresses with its five towers and rich interior; Belfry — The oldest bell tower in Belgium, built in the 12th century. From its 70-metre height, there are panoramic views of the town and surroundings. A UNESCO World Heritage Site; Grand-Place — Picturesque central square of Tournai with historic buildings, cafes and restaurants. The heart of city life, where fairs and cultural events take place; Museum of Fine Arts — One of the oldest museums in Belgium with a collection of European painting and sculpture, including works by Rubens, Van Dyck and other masters; Pont des Trous — Historic bridge over the Scheldt river with openings that were used for the town's defence in the Middle Ages. A symbol of Tournai and a popular spot for walks. These places are worth visiting first to get a full impression of the destination.

Be sure to try the local cuisine: Flammekueche — Thin dough flatbread with bacon, onions and cream cheese baked in an oven — a traditional dish of the region; Boulettes à la Liégeoise — Traditional Liège meatballs made from beef and pork in a thick sauce of syrup and vinegar, served with French fries; Waterzooi — Traditional Flemish fish stew with white fish, shrimp and vegetables in a creamy sauce; Belgian Waffles — Sweet waffles served with powdered sugar, whipped cream, chocolate or fresh fruit; Pastel de Nata — Portuguese custard tart, popular in Belgium, with crispy pastry and delicate cream. Local dishes are an important part of the travel experience.

For accommodation you can consider the following areas: Centre / Grand-Place — Historic heart of Tournai with the cathedral, belfry, town hall and picturesque squares. Ideal for discovering the town's history and architecture; Scheldt Embankment — Scenic walking area along the Scheldt river with views of the Pont des Trous and historic buildings. A popular spot for walks and recreation; La Dollen Quarter — Quiet residential area with local markets, cafes and the authentic atmosphere of a Belgian town. The choice of area depends on your preferences: active or relaxing holiday.

Visa: Schengen. Before your trip, be sure to check the current requirements with official sources, as the rules may change.

The nearest airport — Лилль Аэропорт (code LIL). You can get from the airport to the centre by taxi, the average cost is $150.00. Public transport is also available — a more budget-friendly option.

Currency — EUR. It is recommended to have cash for small expenses and a bank card for larger purchases. The approximate daily budget is $133.00 (≈ 11 161 ₽ · ≈ 119 EUR). Check the current exchange rate before your trip.

Yes, the destination is excellent for a family holiday with children. It has all the necessary infrastructure: well-maintained beaches, cafes and restaurants with children's menus, and entertainment for all ages.

Nightlife is rated as low. There is not much nightlife, but the basics are available.

Nearby you can visit: Lille — Major French city 30 km away with rich culture, restaurants and shopping centres; Mons — Town 50 km away with historic centre and UNESCO sites; Ath — Town 30 km away with a museum and historic attractions; Kortrijk — Town 30 km away with historic centre and museum; Ghent — Major historic city 70 km away with castles and canals. These places are convenient to visit on a day trip.